You may feel rigid or defensive today if you think that others are treating you differently from how they treat others. You may believe that the people you encounter are judging you. It may be that your own perceptions, and not others’ actions, are causing you to feel tense or self-conscious. You can overcome your feelings today by reminding yourself that you can’t read people’s minds and have no way of knowing what motives may be driving their behavior. Your day as well as your outlook may be vastly improved by simply allowing others to have their opinions and validating yourself. Remember that what truly matters is your competence and goodwill—not your popularity.

Understanding that the people you encounter each day have their own reasons for their behaviors can help you avoid feeling scrutinized or negatively judged. It can be tempting to assume that others are forming opinions about your personality based on each action you take, particularly when you’re feeling insecure. Your assumptions, however, can cause you to feel resentful toward people. By letting go of your assumptions, you can live your life in the way you feel is best and move forward confidently and without reservations. You can base your thoughts, actions, and feelings on your internal compass, rather than striving to please others. When you choose to not second-guess others’ motivations today, you can act freely.

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